Method and apparatus for plyometric force application to muscle

ABSTRACT

The invention describes a method and apparatus for plyometric force application to muscle with a plyometric force application element for controlling the amount of plyometric force application. Plyometric force profile and temporal variability, plyometric force intensity, control, and force direction on a 360° plane, can be applied with 360 degrees of vector possibilities of 3-dimentional space, and control of other plyometric force factors for muscle activation of muscle or a group of muscles.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No62/376,005 filed 17 Aug. 2016, the contents of which are herebyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method for plyometricforce application to muscle, and in particular to a desired muscle orgroup of muscles.

BACKGROUND

This relates to the fields of exercise, fitness, training andrehabilitation equipment and resources. Mosby's Medical dictionarydescribes plyometrics as, “bounding or high-velocity exercise thatentails eccentric and rapid concentric muscle contractions, such asjumping or weighted ball throwing and catching.” (Mosby's MedicalDictionary, 9th edition, 2009, Elsevier) Similar exercises have alsobeen created using falling weights in both free and restrainedenvironments. A key factor of plyometric forces is the rapid “explosion”of force that is required to be exerted by the exerciser. Generation andapplication of plyometric forces causes muscles to exert maximum forcein short intervals of time, with the goal of increasing both speed andpower capabilities of the user. Typically, jump training is used toaccomplish plyometric force application to muscle, however jump trainingis limited to leg muscles.

Various devices have been designed to assist muscle development and inexercise training by employing plyometric force. In an example, U.S.Pat. No. 4,750,739 to Lange describes a plyometric exercising devicewith a hand bar, bar guide and gas operated piston to assist and guide auser with a weightlifting exercise. The device of Lange, in particular,is designed to focus on the concentric contraction phase of the exerciseand is limited in capability related to force generation and theapplication of such forces. In an attempt to increase forces, otherdevices employ a biased member such as an elastic in an attempt todecrease the eccentric contraction time followed by an increase in forcerequired during the concentric contraction phase of the exercise.Methodology for research on muscle fatigue detection or prediction andthe development of devices that can be used in sports scenarios toimprove performance or prevent injury has also been studied by Al-Mullaet al. (A Review of Non-Invasive Techniques to Detect and PredictLocalized Muscle Fatigue Sensors 2011, 11(4), pp.3545-3594).

Yuri Verkhoshansky, a Russian track and field coach and researchercredited as being the inventor of plyometrics, defined plyometrics asapplication of Kinetic Energy, for example a falling weight, as a musclestimulating factor. In one example, muscles being exercised are shockedwith a collision or impact of force (kinetic energy) and then engage inrapid (such as less than 1 second) eccentric and concentric contractionsto absorb the kinetic energy, stop the motion of the object, and thenreverse the direction as quickly as possible. It is the finding of thework and study of many researchers that such a regime can result ingreater muscle fiber activation due to the impact of the external force,thus equating to greater power output. It has also been found that themechanism sought is a stretch-shortening cycle which affects theresponse of muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs as well aspotentiating the Myotatic Reflex.

In an exercise, training or rehabilitation setting where a muscle isactivated using a plyometric force, one goal may be to achieve manyseparate cycles of plyometric force muscle activations whereby theaggregate of these cycles has sufficient accuracy and repeatability to amuscle or group of muscles. An adjustable hurdle to jump over may beused, for example, as the plyometric force application element is beraised or lowered to adjust the plyometric force applied to the legmuscle. It is, however, not possible to apply a second or third orfourth or more plyometric activation force activations to the leg muscleor leg muscle group given the hurdle jump design limitations. Theplyometric force application element of the hurdle jump can only apply asingle plyometric force amount to the leg muscle or leg muscle groupthat is activated during the hurdle jump landing. Therefore, more thanone plyometric force application cannot be directly applied to the legmuscle or leg muscle group and is not possible according to a detailedmuscle, exercise, training or rehabilitation regimen that includesmultiple leg muscle and leg group muscle activations. In an exercise,training or rehabilitation setting where a muscle is activated using aplyometric force, another goal may be to be able to provide a plyometricforce or force sequence combination of time, force, stroke, applicationprofile, force direction on a 360° plane, within all of the 360 degreesof vector possibilities of 3-dimentional space, etc., with moreplyometric force profile variability, plyometric force intensity,plyometric force control, plyometric force temporal variability andcontrol of all other plyometric force factors for muscle activationswith sufficient accuracy and repeatability to muscle or group ofmuscles. In an exercise, training or rehabilitation setting where amuscle is activated using a plyometric force, another goal may be toachieve a measured muscle activation amount with sufficient accuracy,repeatability and at the right time. For example, an adjustable hurdleto jump over as the plyometric force application element may be raisedor lowered to adjust the plyometric force applied to the leg muscle. Itis, however, difficult to determine and apply a sufficiently preciseplyometric activation force to the leg muscle given the variability ofthe individual hurdle jumps. Therefore, the determined plyometric forceapplication cannot be directly measured or applied, so that, forexample, an accurate amount of plyometric force can be measured andrepeatedly applied according to a detailed muscle, exercise, training orrehabilitation regimen.

In an exercise, training or rehabilitation setting where a muscle isactivated using a plyometric force, another goal may be to achieve aplyometric force muscle activation amount throughout the entire muscleand muscle group range with sufficient accuracy and repeatability. Amuscle or group of muscles has a range of motion within and throughoutwhich the muscle or group of muscles can be activated. Using, forexample, an adjustable hurdle to jump over, a plyometric forceapplication element may be raised or lowered to adjust the plyometricforce applied to the leg muscle. It is, however, difficult to determineand apply a sufficiently precise plyometric activation force to all ofthe leg muscle points throughout the entire leg muscle or leg musclegroup range given the design and variability of the individual hurdlejumps. The plyometric force application element of the hurdle jump canonly apply a single plyometric force amount and activate a singlelocation or the limited area of the entire leg muscle or group rangethat is activated during the hurdle jump landing. Therefore, thedetermined plyometric force application cannot be directly applied andmeasured, so that, for example, an accurate amount of plyometric forcecan be applied and measured to the remaining leg muscles outside of thehurdle jump landing leg muscles according to a detailed muscle,exercise, training or rehabilitation regimen that includes leg muscleand leg group of muscle activations throughout the entire leg musclerange.

In an exercise, training or rehabilitation setting where a muscle isactivated using a plyometric force, another goal may be to achieveplyometric force muscle activations with sufficient accuracy andrepeatability to a group of muscles. Existing plyometric equipment andplyometric force application to muscle relies on gravity and is designedto be a simple (dumb) object, typically a platform or series thereof,for jumping off of. These things include hurdles, cones, boxes,platforms etc. In some cases, adjustable platforms can be used, chieflyrelying on gravity and body mass to generate the eccentric contraction,mostly in the legs. In another case, the clap push-up, which is avariation to the traditional push-up, has the exerciser push themselvesup in the air enough to clap their hands and then quickly put theirhands down in order to generate a plyometric force to the chest/pectoralmuscles. If, however, the plyometric force application was to be appliedto activate additional muscles and muscle groups outside of the legs andchest, such plyometric activations are not possible. Therefore,plyometric force applications according to a detailed muscle, exercise,training or rehabilitation regimen for muscle and groups of muscleoutside of legs and chest is challenging.

In an exercise, training or rehabilitation setting where a muscle isactivated using a plyometric force, another goal may be to safelyachieve plyometric force muscle activations with sufficient accuracy andrepeatability to all muscle or group of muscles. Using existingplyometric equipment and plyometric force application to muscle methods,including hurdles, cones, boxes, platforms etc. which rely on gravityand are designed to be a simple (dumb) object typically a platform orseries thereof for jumping off of, jumping failures are common and canbe very serious. In another case, using the clap push-up, there is areal risk of injury from clap push-up failure. Also the determinedplyometric force application cannot be safely and directly measured orapplied, so that, for example, an accurate amount of plyometric forcecan be measured and repeatedly applied according to a safe detailedmuscle, exercise, training or rehabilitation regimen.

Current methods, devices and apparatuses for delivering plyometricforces are primitive and extremely limited. There is therefore a need toreduce shortcomings in known plyometric force application a muscle ormuscle group.

This background information is provided for the purpose of making knowninformation believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to thepresent invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should beconstrued, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior artagainst the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and methodfor plyometric force application to muscle, and in particular to adesired muscle or group of muscles.

In an aspect there is provided an apparatus for delivering plyometricforce to muscle, the apparatus comprising: a force generator to generateplyometric force; a force application element functionally connected tothe force generator for delivering the plyometric force to muscle; acontrol unit for controlling the force generator; and a memory forstoring a plyometric force application profile, wherein the forcegenerator generates a plyometric force based on the stored plyometricforce application profile.

In an embodiment, the plyometric force application profile comprisestimes, duration, amplitude, temporal variability, plyometric forceintensity, force direction on a 360° plane, load time periods, or acombination thereof. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises adelta robot. In another embodiment, the plyometric force applicationprofile comprises a multitude of a single plyometric contraction forces,wherein each single plyometric contraction force is comprised of singleor multiple pulses, vibrations, twists, torsional rotations, pulls, or acombination thereof.

In another embodiment, the applied plyometric force is eccentric,concentric, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the forceapplication element is a bar, plate, handlebar, platform, tether,harness, bat, club, racquet or stick. In another embodiment, the forceapplication element delivers plyometric force through a fluid to themuscle. In another embodiment, the fluid is air or water. In anotherembodiment, the force application element is interfaced with theapparatus with a connector, fastener, mechanical device, friction fit,magnetic device, or combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises more than one forcegenerator. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a sensor formeasuring muscle applied weight, force, temperature, tension, stress,damage, conductance, hydration, or a combination thereof. In anotherembodiment, the force generator is a pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic,electric, elastic, electro-magnetic, or neuromagnetic force generator.In another embodiment, the apparatus is configured like a bench press, aleg squat equipment, a bicep machine, an all-in-one universal fitnessequipment machine application, a rowing machine, an abdominal machine,or a physical rehabilitation device.

In another aspect there is provided a method for applying plyometricforce to muscle, the apparatus comprising: creating a plyometric forceapplication profile; generating plyometric force using a plyometricforce generator based on the plyometric force application profile;transferring the plyometric force from the force generator to a forceapplication element; and delivering the plyometric force to a muscle bythe force application element.

In an embodiment, the plyometric force application profile comprises amultitude of a single plyometric contraction forces, wherein each singleplyometric contraction force is comprised of single or multiple pulses,vibrations, twists, torsional rotations, and pulls over different loadtime periods. In another embodiment, the plyometric force applicationprofile is programmable.

In another embodiment, the plyometric force application profilecomprises variations in, vectors, cycles, sequences, combinations oftime, force, stroke, force direction, or a combination thereof. Inanother embodiment, the plyometric force is exerted in multiple axissimultaneously, such as x, y, z, twist x, twist y, twist z, and acombination thereof.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises pre-strainingmuscle, pre-stressing muscle, or a combination thereof. In anotherembodiment, the method further comprises creating an electric potentialacross a muscle or group of muscles before delivering the plyometricforce to the muscle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a better understanding of the present invention, as well as otheraspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the followingdescription which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, where:

FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating the high level apparatus logicwhereby the apparatus determines if it is safe for the user of theapparatus (exerciser);

FIG. 2 illustrates a basic apparatus operation sequence example;

FIG. 3 illustrates several plyometric force application profiles;

FIG. 4A illustrates part of an inventive plyometric force applicationprofile of a single plyometric event;

FIG. 4B illustrates another part of an inventive plyometric forceapplication profile of a single plyometric event;

FIG. 4C details a sample plyometric force application profile;

FIG. 4D details a sample plyometric force application profile;

FIG. 4E details a sample plyometric force application profile;

FIG. 4F illustrates a sample plyometric force application profilewhereby the plyometric force delays in start then follows a simpleon/off type intensity;

FIG. 5A illustrates a relationship between the plyometric forceintensity and time;

FIG. 5B illustrates a sample plyometric force application profileembodiment with any number of individual plyometric force applicationembodiments existing in a positive or negative direction in3-dimentional space;

FIG. 6 presents an example of how a plyometric force application profilecan be applied to a muscle as the position changes in three dimensions;

FIG. 7 presents an example 3D force application profile;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a plyometricforce application to chest muscles; and

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a plyometricforce application to arm muscles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs.

As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise.

The term “comprising” as used herein will be understood to mean that thelist following is non-exhaustive and may or may not include any otheradditional suitable items, for example one or more further feature(s),component(s) and/or element(s) as appropriate.

The term “plyometric force” refers to the force experienced by orapplied to muscles during an exercise in which force is applied tomuscle in a short interval of time. Plyometric force application tomuscle can also be a rapid duration experience of force on a muscle. Onegoal of applying plyometric force to muscle is to increase muscle poweras speed-strength. Plyometric muscle training can include moving one ormore muscles from extension to a contraction (or vice versa) in a rapidor “explosive” manner. Plyometrics can also include explosive and/orpowerful training exercises that are trained to activate the quickresponse and elastic properties of the major muscles in the body.Plyometric exercise can be used by athletes such as, for example,martial artists, sprinters and high jumpers, and in fitness, to achievean increase in explosive force and power. The applied plyometric forcecan be eccentric, concentric, a combination thereof, or other pattern.

The presently described apparatus and method is capable of applying aknown plyometric force application to a muscle or muscle group.Techniques can be used to tune the plyometric force applied by theapparatus for obtaining profiles of multiple activations, intensity,direction in 3-dimensional space, temporal characteristics,measurability, repeatability and other force factors, that werepreviously impossible using other apparatuses. Through these forceactivation profiles, it is possible to stimulate and provoke uniqueactivation strategies of specific muscles, muscle groups and the nervoussystem through both conscious and unconscious (conditioned andunconditioned) reactions. The present method and apparatus provides forplyometric force application to muscle with a plyometric forceapplication element for controlling the amount of plyometric forceapplication to muscle. A variety of plyometric force profiles arepossible. Temporal variability, plyometric force intensity, control, andforce direction on a 360° plane, within all of the 360 degrees of vectorpossibilities of 3-dimentional space, as well as other plyometric forcefactors can also be controlled for muscle activations with sufficientaccuracy, measurability and repeatability to muscle or group of muscles.

The present apparatus facilitates the creation of both Soviet andAmerican Plyometric forces (shock loaded eccentric contraction in ≦1 secprogrammable followed by a pushing concentric contraction of duration tobe determined by the trainer) to other muscle groups that cannot bereadily serviced by jumping. Soviet Plyometric forces typically see theentire eccentric contraction and concentric contraction sequenceoccurring ≦0.2 seconds. American Plyometric forces typically see a rapideccentric contraction followed by a slower concentric contraction wherethe entire sequence can occur in ≦1 second or more. Together, eccentric,concentric and related forces will be referred to as plyometric forces.The present apparatus and method is capable of meeting both of thesedefinitions or anywhere in between.

The apparatus can be used as a muscle activation system capable ofgenerating and applying plyometric forces to a specific muscle group ormuscle groups. A combination of plyometric force application element andplyometric force generator can control the amount, intensity, duration,etc. of plyometric force application to muscle tissue. The appliedplyometric force profile can be generated through taking several keyfactors into consideration. The primary plyometric factors include, butare not limited to temporal variability, force intensity, force control,force direction on a 360° plane, within all of the 360 degrees of vectorpossibilities of 3-dimentional space, including similar parameters forpre-stressing muscles. These factors for muscle and the associatedmuscle activations can be sufficiently accurate, measurable andrepeatable to any muscle or group of muscles.

A purpose built apparatus has been developed to specifically to work amuscle or groups of muscles with a plyometric force generatingapparatus. Such a purpose built device can have the form of atraditional piece of exercise equipment, with a specialty setup that isoptimized for the plyometric force or a robotic device where a spatialenvelope (x,y,z) axis is available to execute the forces. This roboticenvelope can be sufficiently small to work one or some specific muscles,either at many points along the muscle range or on a specific point ofthe muscle, or groups of muscles, or conversely it can be large enoughfor a person to enter inside of. Such a robotic envelope can be createdby one or more robotic arms, telescopic arms, overhead gantry, or somecombination thereof. In one preferable embodiment, the apparatus is adelta style robot. The logic to control the plyometric forces can beprogrammed into the robot and force-feed back capabilities may or maynot be employed. Furthermore, a delta style robot can apply singular orrepeated, rapid and forceful actions requiring between 0 to 100% musclefiber activation. A control unit optionally with a microprocessor canuse sophisticated force equations to control the plyometric forceapplication generator. This can be accomplished through programmed logicin the robot or apparatus control including repeats and or variousplyometric element variations as required. The logic can instruct theapparatus to move and facilitate motion in a defined direction with adefined force.

The apparatus comprises a plyometric force generator and an efficientinterface in which the muscle and or groups of muscles can interact withthe apparatus to receive the desired plyometric forces and profiles asdeveloped. The plyometric forces can be generated through, for example,hydraulic, servo, magnetic, pneumatic motion against or relative to aframe. The human interface is a device or series of devices that arecapable of delivering the forces from the force generator to the user. Amethod and an apparatus is provided for measuring the plyometric forceprofile and application amount in an accurate and timely way or a timedmeasurement of the plyometric force profile amount across a plyometricforce application element, in which the plyometric force profile andamount across the plyometric force application element is determined orsensed and is provided at a predefined time in synchronization with acontrol program or control logic of the plyometric force applicationelement. A tall delta style robot is capable of, for example, forcefeedback data collection and sophisticated logic where by the userenters the robot manipulation zone and connects with a force applicationelement that in turn delivers the plyometric forces to the specificmuscle groups as required.

A plyometric force or force sequence combination of time, force, stroke,application profile, force direction on a 360° plane, within all of the360 degrees of vector possibilities of 3-D space, etc. with specificplyometric force profile variability, plyometric force intensity,plyometric force control, plyometric force temporal variability andcontrol of all other plyometric force factors can be applied for muscleactivations with sufficient accuracy and repeatability to muscle orgroup of muscles. Plyometric force application elements can provideaccurately measured and/or precisely adjusted, and plyometric force canbe delivered in one or many separate cycles of plyometric force muscleactivations where by the aggregate of effect these cycles is greaterthan any training currently possible. This includes the concept ofpre-straining and or stressing and or creating an electric potentialacross a muscle or group of muscles before a plyometric force or forceprofile is delivered to the target. This also includes developing anddefining a plyometric element that is determined or sensed and isprovided at a predefined time in synchronization with a control programor control logic of the plyometric force application element. Thisincludes forces that can be measured or precisely adjusted in order tobe applied to one or a variety of muscle activation points throughoutthe muscle or group of muscles. This can also include plyometric forcemuscle activations to additional muscles and muscle groups outside ofthe legs and chest. This can also include elements that eliminatefalling and safety concerns that are caused by, for example, failures toclear hurdles or cones or from jumping off of boxes during theplyometric force application to muscle process.

The present invention represents an improvement in the prior art andprovides a method and apparatus for plyometric force application tomuscle that can be dynamic, multi-directional, controllable, adjustable.The present apparatus can also provide infinite plyometric force profilevariability, intensity, temporal variability and programmability of allother plyometric force factors, for improved muscle activation, musclestrength, muscle rehabilitation, muscle flexibility, core control, andother athletic performance improvements, among other benefits, for theuser that is not possible in the prior art.

The present apparatus also does not rely on gravity, and insteadgenerates very specific plyometric forces and apply said forces to veryspecific muscles and or groups of muscles. The present inventionconsists of logic and an apparatus for applying plyometric forces tospecific muscles or groups of muscles. The logic details how the forcewill be applied factoring temporal, intensity and profile variables.According to one embodiment of the invention, the control unit containsa memory, in which the plyometric force application profile informationabout the times for delivering plyometric forces and about the durationand amplitudes of the plyometric forces in each plyometric sequence isstored. A microprocessor controls the control unit for deliveringplyometric forces on the basis of the stored information. Theinformation is suitably stored in the form of data, programmed by theuser or trainer, which are tailored to the user requirements. Switchingbetween plyometric force application profiles is also controlled on thebasis of the stored data.

The present apparatus is capable of generation and application ofplyometric force in such a way that the force can be applied to avariety of muscle groups outside of and including the legs. This forcehas the effect of activating more muscle fibers and motor neurons in aparticular muscle than traditional exercising techniques, resources andapparatus currently available. The key element is the sharpness of theexternal force as applied by the apparatus. It is up to the user to stopthe movement and force over a minimal or prescribed distance then switchfrom eccentric to concentric muscle movement to repel the force in somedirection.

In one embodiment, various muscles and or groups of muscles can beisolated through the inclusion of braces or restrictive device worn bythe user of the apparatus that are specifically designed to restrict orprohibit the motion of various joints. This specific muscle targetingcan also be achieved through the human/machine interface location. Forexample, the machine can interfaces with a user's elbow rather than handor foot palm or interfacing directly to a specially designed restrictionbrace through means of a fastener or directly to a specially designedinterface point that might be a cuff, sleeve or other mode that isfastened via tension, clamping, screwing, adhesion, etc. Theelectrification (potential across specific cells) of muscles or groupsof muscles can be achieved through the incorporation of electrodes viaadhesive, elastic, cuff mount, under skin, pin/needle, etc.alternatively, the human/machine interface can be developed such thatthere is are insulated sections and or isolated contact points that canbe electrified to induce the potential across specific cells. The extentof the potential is limited only by the capabilities of the cells tosurvive. This aspect can be manipulated for muscle activation and orrehabilitation depending on the voltage and profile developed/applied.

A force application element is used to apply plyometric force to muscle.Directing plyometric force application to muscle can be accomplishedthrough a number of methods specifically tailored to individual needsand or muscle group needs. The force application element can take theform of a bar, a plate, tether, harness, specialized sports equipmentlike a bat, club, racquet or stick, or other form capable of applyingplyometric force to muscle either directly or indirectly. Other forceapplication elements can be a force application plate, kick plate, aplatform for standing on, a side surface, overhead surface, where thesurfaces may be solid, semi-solid, rubberized, as well textured orsmooth, and of any shape such as round, rectangular, flat or3-dimentionally formed. The force application element may also be formedto accommodate a body shape, limb shape, or muscle shape. Mobile forceapplication elements such as a bat, club, racquet or stick may alsoserve as a force application element and can be gripped by the user asrequired, and can be interfaced with the apparatus to the forcegenerator through a fastener, or by mechanical, friction, magneticconnection, or other means of connection. Force application elements canalso be envisaged to accommodate animal bodies and/or appendages forapplying plyometric force to animal muscle, such as, for example, horsesor dogs. The force application element may also be used to applyplyometric force to a fluid, such as for example air or water, such thatthe air or water can further direct the plyometric force to muscle.

In one embodiment, the plyometric force application apparatus itself canbe created through the inclusion of one or more force generators(pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic, electric, elastic, electro-magnetic,neuromagnetic, etc.) and logic to any existing piece of exerciseequipment or resource, or training or rehabilitation, etc. equipment orresource. The type of control logic can be pneumatic, hydraulic,electronic or mechanical. Some limitations of the force vectors andimpulse profiles may be imparted due to the limitations of the equipmentthat it is installed on. In the case of an installation onto existingexercise equipment, the force generators can be attached to the frame ofthe equipment through mechanical fasteners, magnets, friction sleeve,adhesion, etc. These fastening point(s) may be stationary or adjustableor dynamically movable depending on the installation parameters.

The apparatus for plyometric force application to muscle can beconfigured as a piece of exercise equipment such as a bench press, a legsquat equipment, a bicep machine, an all-in-one universal fitnessequipment machine application, rowing machine, abdominal machine forexample, a physical rehabilitation device, or any other exerciseequipment resource, fitness equipment resource, training equipmentresource or rehabilitation resource. The apparatus can also be tailoredfor activity specific exercise, training and or rehabilitation forsports and or activities including but not limited to golf, baseball,football, swimming, running javelin, horse racing, hockey, basketball,soccer etc. The present method and apparatus can provide tailoredplyometric force application to muscle, including plyometric forceprofile variability, plyometric force intensity, plyometric forcetemporal variability and control of other plyometric force factors. Thepresent apparatus can also allow the exercise, fitness, training orrehabilitation equipment, apparatus or equipment resource to beselectively used as a plyometric force application resource or atraditional exercise, weight, training or rehabilitation equipmentresource.

Although the present invention has been described with respect tocertain example embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in theart that the present invention is not limited to these specificembodiments. For example, although the invention has been described foruse in an exercise equipment environment, the invention can be used toapply plyometric forces using a specific athletic training equipmentresource in an athletic training environment as well. Similarly, thepresent apparatus can be used to apply plyometric forces using aspecific rehabilitation equipment resource in a rehabilitationenvironment as well. Further, although the operation of certainembodiments has been described in detail using specific equipmentresources and certain detailed process steps, different equipmentresources, machines or robotic resources may be used, and some of thesteps may be omitted or other similar steps may be substituted, withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. Other embodimentsincorporating the inventive features of the present invention will beapparent to those skilled in the art.

A high level description of the method is detailed in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating an example apparatus logic wherebythe apparatus determines if it is safe for the user of the apparatus(exerciser). As shown in FIG. 1, once the apparatus is activated, thesystem determines through sensors (weight, thermal, tension, stress,damage, conductance, hydration, etc.) when the program can be initiatedin step 101. One of the first stages of a program is to energize theapparatus and disable safety lockouts in step 102. The apparatus willwait for confirmation from the user or trainer that the user is ready toreceive the plyometric force in step 103. If the user is not ready, thelogic proceeds to step 104 where the safety lockouts are once againactivated before returning to step 102. If the user is ready, the logicprogresses to step 105 where the plyometric forces and or force profilesare executed.

FIG. 2 illustrates a basic apparatus operation sequence example,essentially showing that the present apparatus is not limited by thenumber of plyometric sequences or elements applied in a single session.FIG. 2 details a sample operation sequence whereby step 1 the apparatusconfirms that the user is ready in step 201. If the user is not readyfor any reason the logic proceeds to step 202 and returns to step 102 inFIG. 1. The user is ready to receive plyometric forces and or forceprofiles if the user triggers an activation button or applies contact tothe user interface. A coach or trainer can also signal that the user isready if the force application is to be unexpected by the user. If theuser is ready to receive plyometric forces and or forces profiles, thelogic proceeds to step 203 where the apparatus is cleared to applyforces and or force profiles at specific locations. Step 204 sees theuser moving the machine interface through 3-dimensional space until aplyometric activation trigger coordinate has been reached at step 205.The plyometric force and or force profile sequence is then applied tothe user through the interface. The logic then proceeds to step 206where a decision is made by the program regarding subsequent force andor profile applications. If another force application is required, thelogic proceeds to step 207 and confirmation of the next force parametersare conducted. If no changes are required, the logic returns to step 204or 205 and the next force application is applied or the user once againmoves the interface through 3-dimensional space until the nextplyometric activation trigger coordinate has been reached at step 205.If a change to the parameters is required the logic will proceed to step208. From 208 the logic returns to step 204 or 205 and either affectsthe user or waits for the user to move the interface to a new plyometricactivation trigger coordinate. From step 206, if no further plyometricforces and or force profiles are required, the logic proceeds to step209 and the shutdown/exit sequence is executed.

FIG. 3 presents several plyometric force profiles. The apparatus cancall on any of these profiles modified by variable parameters. Theinvention is capable of producing plyometric force profiles with anumber of elements as described in FIG. 3. This shows that there can bea complex structure or composition of an individual plyometric forceapplication that is far more sophisticated than the prior art. Element 1shown as 301 details a simple on and off functionality in a time limitedto less than 1 second (to achieve the plyometric effect). Element 2shown as 302 details a building of force intensity in terms of somefunction (linear, exponential, polynomial, etc.) within a specific timesuch that the plyometric effect can be achieved. Element 3 shown as 303details the opposite of 302 whereby the force intensity starts strongthen is reduced following some function. Element 4 shown as 304 detailsthe potential of multiple plyometric hits or force application profileswithin a time interval. Element 5 shown as 305 details the applicationof a combination of elements 1, 2, 3 and 4 based on some parametersderived by a sensed data from the user. This could include but is notlimited to oxygen levels, lactic acid levels, energization of themuscle, muscle stress, temperature, other muscle or bodilycharacteristics, or a combination thereof. Element 6 shown as 306details the application of a combination of profiles 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5based on some parameters derived by a sensed data from the user andpreloaded or pre stressed muscle. This can be achieved through passingpotential through the muscles or groups of muscles, vibrations, lightstimulation, heat stimulation (conduction, convection, radiation), neuromagnetic, magnetic, etc.

A variety of specific sequences of events can be produced by varying anumber of factors (temporal, force, vector direction, number of elementsin an aggregate, etc.) as detailed in FIGS. 4A-4F. The force profilesare unrestricted in terms of shape profile, temporal delay/dwell, thenumber of force peaks within a specific force, force holds/dwells, therate of change of force application and removal, and the force can existor be exerted in multiple axis simultaneously, such as x, y, z, twist x,twist y, twist z, and combinations thereof. These sequences can bemeasurable, repeatable, and applied at specific times throughout themotion (stroke) of a muscle with pre-stressed, and electrified(potential across specific cells) muscle and or group of muscles. FIG.4A details a sample plyometric force application profile whereby theplyometric force starts at 0 and increases following a mathematicalfunction to a maximum then abruptly back to 0 in less than a maximumplyometric force time window before ending within a plyometric windowamong a plurality of possible plyometric force applications. FIG. 4Bdetails another sample plyometric force application profile whereby theplyometric force builds from 0 and follows a mathematical function thatincludes a progressive reduction in the applied plyometric forcefollowed by an increase following a different (compound) mathematicalfunction. This single plyometric event starts at 0 force and increasesfollowing a complex mathematical function before ending within aplyometric window among a plurality of possible plyometric forceapplication events. FIG. 4C details another sample plyometric forceapplication profile whereby the plyometric force follows several linearfunctions of various intensities returning to 0 several times within oneplyometric force time window effectively creating multiple hits. FIG. 4Ddetails a sample plyometric force application embodiment that is similarto FIG. 4C however there is a complex plyometric force function at somepoint within the plyometric force time window. The duration andintensity of each plyometric hit can be different and independent of theprevious hits. Subsequent plyometric hits can also be dependent on priorhits. FIG. 4E details a sample plyometric force application profilewhereby the plyometric force has a delay in starting then rapidlyattains maximum force before following a mathematic function down to 0force within the plyometric time window. FIG. 4F details a sampleplyometric force application profile whereby the plyometric force delaysin start then follows a simple on/off type intensity.

Muscle stimulation can also be performed by the discharge of an electricvoltage/amperage pulse between two electrodes just prior to theplyometric force application. The control unit can control the forceapplication element for delivering plyometric force applications and thestimulation activator circuitry so a series of small muscle stimulationsusing for example, an electrical stimulation electrode placed on themuscle, are emitted prior to each plyometric force application. Theelectrodes are placed so the discharge takes place over the muscle or alarge part thereof. The energy in a pulse can be variable and can amountto several to a few dozen joules. This produces a refractory area aroundthe stimulation electrode to prepare the muscle before the actualplyometric force application is delivered. Plyometric force applicationsin each muscle activation sequence can also be emitted between muscleactivation shocks or after the same.

A muscle sensor can further be used to detect muscle characteristics andperform muscle state analyses, and direct the plyometric forceapplication profile according to a desired logic pre-programming. Themuscle detector can be capable of recognizing and differentiating amongvarious muscle states, including, for example inactive or active musclestates. The plyometric force application method and apparatus can usethe muscle sensor to perform muscle state analyses and to use theresults of these analyses to categorize or recognize the currentcondition of the muscle and further direct the desired plyometric forceapplication profile.

FIGS. 5A-B show infinitely programmable plyometric contraction time,infinitely programmable plyometric contraction force/intensity,infinitely programmable location for force to be exerted, infinitelyprogrammable force vector to be exerted, infinitely programmable numberof plyometric force sequences (single or multiple aggregatehits/loadings) per cycle on top of potential and unlimited preloadingpre-stressing of a muscle or group of muscles. Infinitely programmablepercussion/percussive loads and or forces can be produced mechanically,pneumatically, hydraulically, electrically, magnetically,electro-magnetically, neuromagnetically, etc. The apparatus also has theability to be configured for any and all muscle groups for humans and oranimals, to enable and generate directional stability for increasedsafety and form and directional movement performance capability, and tohave variable, programmable forces and force duration to enable use inthe fields of athletic performance and training, physicaltraining/conditioning, exercise training and rehabilitation. Theapparatus can be portable or stationary based on desired use. Dedicatedequipment resources and aftermarket add-on type equipment resourcesolutions are also possible Equipment and resource functionality can becontrolled via digital, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic etc. logic.Equipment and resources can further be configured for any living thingincluding humans and other mammals, reptiles, birds, aquatic andinsects.

FIG. 5A details a sample plyometric force profile whereby a plyometricforce sequence as defined in FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F or acombination thereof is applied at specific or random points throughout aset or subset defining the stroke of a muscle. The intervals of noaction can be identified spatially requiring a trigger point in3-dimensional space to be reached. The intervals of no action can alsobe temporal in nature. The intervals of no action can vary in durationand quantity throughout a set or subset defining the stroke of a muscle.FIG. 5B details a sample plyometric force profile similar to FIG. 5Ahowever any number of individual plyometric force applicationembodiments can exist in a positive or negative direction in3-dimentional space. FIG. 5A illustrates a relationship between theplyometric force intensity and time and presents an example of how theplyometric force can be embodied within a single muscle stroke. Theplyometric force morphology in FIG. 5A shows forces being applied tosome pre-selected regions throughout a given muscle or group of musclerange and also serves to illustrate through a single plyometric forcemorphology example, that numerous other morphologies, not possible inthe prior art, could be utilized in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention. FIG. 5B illustrates a sample plyometric forceprofile embodiment similar to FIG. 5B, however any number of individualplyometric force application embodiments can exist in a positive ornegative direction in 3-dimentional space.

An eccentric contraction force (plyometric force) sequence is somecombination of time, force, stroke, application profile, force directionon a 360° plane, within all of the 360 degrees of vector possibilitiesof 3-dimentional space as shown in FIG. 6 where the line details motionthrough 3-dimentional space and each node represents a plyometricelement as described above in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, 5A and 5B.Each node can affect the user in any 3-dimentional space direction withany plyometric force application embodiment profile compounded with anyplyometric force profile embodiment. FIG. 6 presents an example of howthe plyometric force profiles can be applied to a muscle as the positionchanges in 3-dimentional space in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention

FIG. 7 presents a 3D force application profile example within a single3-dimentional space motion and force application point from FIG. 6 andshows how a single proposed plyometric force profile point can look andchange in three dimensions. The shown 3-dimentional force applicationprofile is an example of one of the dots from FIG. 6, where linethickness represents intensity and the line direction represents forcevector illustrates intensity force and the direction vector of the forceall happening within a 1000 ms time constraint. The plyometric forcemorphology shown in FIG. 7 is only one example, and plyometric forceswith numerous other morphologies could be utilized in accordance withthe principles of the present invention.

FIG. 7 details an example compounded plyometric force element node wherethe plyometric force motion happens in 3-dimentional space and dynamicline width shows force intensity and the mathematical function that itfollows. Some examples are as follows: a single plyometric contractionforce is comprised of single or multiple pulses, vibrations, twists,torsional rotations, pulls and over different load time periods, asingle plyometric contraction force is comprised of a combination of aninitial eccentric and then concentric loading. For example, in the caseof one embodiment of the invention, such as the arm curl machine or armcurl equipment resource, a machine setting that directs a single forcethat pulls into the palm of the hand and then followed by a single forcethat pushes against the back of the hand is possible, which is notpossible in the prior art. Further, a combination of a multitudeeccentric contraction force load(s) can then be followed by a multitudeof concentric contraction force(s), a combination of variable loads, asingle eccentric contraction force that starts with a small load thengoes to a heavy load and over different load time periods, a singleeccentric contraction force that starts with a heavy load then goes to asmall load and over different load time periods, a single eccentriccontraction force that is comprised of short period of time forces, anda single eccentric contraction force that is comprised of long period oftime forces to muscle or a group of muscles are all possible using thearm curl machine or equipment resource profile. Any of the above forcesand or force cycles can be considered a vector that can be applied inany direction within 3-dimentional space from the attachment point.Infinitely programmable axially and radially directed force, at thelocation of the force to be exerted, can include but is not limited totwisting, torsionally rotating or pulling directed forces. In the caseof the arm curl, a machine force application profile setting thatdirects a single force that twists the bar is positioned in the palm ofthe users hand. Alternatively, a machine force application profilesetting can direct a single force that initially pulls a bar (serving asa force application element) that is positioned in the palm of the usershand and then twists the bar. Infinitely programmable plyometric forceapplication profiles can include variations in, for example, vectors,cycles, sequences, combinations of time, force, stroke, force direction,and combinations of axially and radially directed plyometric forces atthe location of the force to be exerted and variable eccentricplyometric time, force, stroke, and force contraction sequences. FIG. 7is one possible sample illustration of how the plyometric forceapplication embodiments and profile embodiments can compound andinteract with each other within a single node described in FIG. 6.

Various plyometric force profiles can be seen in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D,4E, 4F, 5A, 5B, 6 and 7. Furthermore, these profiles can be furthercomplicated and can apply additional impulses to the muscle during itsconcentric contraction. Each of these additional impulses can also betailored plyometric force with unlimited profile variability, plyometricforce intensity, plyometric force temporal variability and control ofother plyometric force factors.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of plyometric force apparatus 800 withsupport stand 802 for plyometric force application to chest muscles.Force application element 801 represents the force application elementin which an eccentric contraction inducing force can be applied. Thismember can be a bar of any shape with any cross section, such as round,hex, square, oval, flat, “I”, angular, “C”, triangular, and can besolid, hollow, of variable internal geometry, or composite, such asfilled with a secondary, tertiary, or other substance. The forceapplication element 801 can be of any material that is suitably strongto transmit the eccentric contraction inducing force without sufferingpermanent deformation. In one preferable embodiment, the forceapplication element 801 will be maximally rigid to facilitate themaximum transmission of force and constitutes the machine interface.This might include metals (steel, aluminum, iron, etc.) or compositematerials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, etc.

The apparatus 800 facilitates motion of the force application element801 and provides a place for the eccentric contraction inducing forcegenerator 803 to be connected to the apparatus 800. Applicationspecific, there may be one or more support stands or support structure;the apparatus of FIG. 8 has vertical support structure 802. The forceapplication element 801, which in the embodiment shown is a horizontalbar, can be adjusted to facilitate the development of the infinitelyprogrammable location for force to be exerted. The force applicationelement 801 is also capable of facilitating, enabling and generatingdirectional stability for increased safety and form if needed. Thesupport structure 802 may be omitted or otherwise changed from theembodiment shown in FIG. 8, and can also be a hand held or multidimension, activity specific unit such as but not limited to golf,baseball, football, swimming, running javelin, horse racing, hockey,basketball, soccer etc. One or more force generator 803 is capable ofgenerating a plyometric force to the plyometric force applicationelement 801. The apparatus 800 can provide an eccentric contraction viathe one or more force generator 803 to generate the forces as requiredto the force application element 801. The force generator 803 can belocated internally, externally, integrally or remotely. Force generator803 can provide, for example, a rotational, vibrational, translationalmotion, or combination thereof, to force application element 801, andcan exert forces in a variety of directions to facilitate a 360 degreesof vector possibilities to the force application element 801. The forcegenerator 803 can generate force and impulse through the use of orcombination use of pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic, electric,electro-magnetic, neuromagnetic means (inducer, actuator, servo, gear,threaded, etc.), chemical, shape-memory alloy (one or two way) or biasedmember. This force generator 803 is configurable to exhibit variableforces and impulses in terms of force duration, force profile,intensity, stroke, number of forces sequences, etc. The apparatus canalso comprise more than one force generator 803 capable of generatingforce to one or more force application element 801.

The force generator 803 and force application element 801 can also beadded to a piece of existing exercise, training or rehabilitationequipment or a new activity specific piece of equipment to replaceelements 801 and 802. Control unit 804 comprises a power unit andpreferably a microprocessor with may cause to excite, ignite orotherwise empower the force generator 803 comprising pneumatic,hydraulic, magnetic, electric, electro-magnetic, neuromagnetic, etc.(inducer, actuator, servo, gear, threaded, etc.), chemical, shape-memoryalloy (one or two way) or biased member. The control unit 804 cancomprise a controller such as, for example, a valve, regulator,computer, or combination thereof, to enable the control unit 804 tofacilitate all of the key performance capabilities as detailed above.The control unit 804 can be configurable to exhibit variable levels ofexcitement to force generator 803 and force application element 801,particularly if additional axes of motion are enabled. The control unit804 can also have computational capabilities to interpret and react todynamic sensor readings surrounding repeatability and muscle condition.There can be one or more control units 804 in the apparatus 800depending on the application. The control unit 804 can be locatedinternally, externally, integrally or remotely to the apparatus 800. Thecontrol unit 804 can further conduct one or two way communications withforce generator 803 and force application element 801 via communicationchannel 805. Communication channel 805 can be, for example, Wi-Fi,Bluetooth, direct wire, or other communication connection. Control unit804 can be capable of generating a set or sub set of the plyometricforce and logic. Memory (not shown) in communication with the controlunit 804 stores one or more plyometric force application profiles forapplication to the force application element 801. In an example exerciseusing apparatus 800, a user squats under force application elementshoulder bar 801 with feet on the floor or support. A downwardplyometric force can then be applied to the leg muscles through the bodyof the user by force generation to the shoulders by force applicationelement shoulder bar 801.

In FIG. 9 is shown a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of aplyometric force apparatus 900 to apply plyometric force to arm musclesthrough the use of a 5+ axis delta style robot, which may include theexemplary embodiments of the apparatuses, methods and systems of aspresently described. The apparatus 900 may also include extra sensors907 to detect various muscle or bodily characteristics and properties.The apparatus 900 in FIG. 9 can manipulate muscle in 3-dimentionalspace, such as a person's hand as per the path detailed in FIG. 7whereby each node is a plyometric force application. Force applicationelement 901 is a member through which the eccentric contraction inducingforce can be applied. The force application element 901 can be a bar ofany shape or cross-section, such as round, hex, square, oval, flat, “I”,angular, “C”, triangular, etc., that is either solid, hollow, ofvariable internal geometry, composite, such as filled with a secondary,tertiary, or other substance. The force application element 901 can bemanufactured of any material that is suitably strong to transmit aneccentric contraction inducing force without suffering permanentdeformation or absorbing the plyometric force intended to be transferredto the muscle of a user. Preferably, the force application element 901will be maximally rigid to facilitate the maximum transmission of force.Materials of which the force application element 901 is made can includemetals such as steel, aluminum, iron, etc., or composite materials suchas carbon fiber, fiberglass. Connectors 902 are capable of connectingthe one or more force application element 901 and withstanding highspeed (plyometric time window speed) motion of sufficient rigidity thatall or substantially all of the plyometric forces generated can beapplied to the force application element 901. Connectors 902 alsofacilitate the limited 3-dimentional space motion of the forceapplication element 901. Connectors 902 can be composed of, for example,appropriate composites such as steel, aluminum, plastic, iron, titanium,other materials or a combination thereof. Force generator 903 serves togenerate the plyometric forces as required and transferring the force toforce application element 901. The force generator 903 can be locatedinternally, externally, integrally or remotely. Force applicationelement 901 as shown can be capable of rotating around support 904 andconnectors 902, and force generator 903 can be capable of exertingforces in a variety of direction to facilitate the 360 degrees of vectorpossibilities. The force generator 903 can generate forces and impulsethrough the use of or combination use of pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic,electric, electro-magnetic, neuromagnetic means (inducer, actuator,servo, gear, threaded, etc.), chemical, shape-memory alloy (one or twoway) or biased member to force application element 901. The forcegenerator 903 can be configurable to exhibit variable forces andimpulses in terms of force duration, force profile, intensity, stroke,number of forces sequences, etc. There can be one or more forcegenerators 903 each connected with one or more force applicationelements depending on the application. Further, one or more forceapplication element 901 and one or more associated force generator 903can be added to a piece of existing exercise, training or rehabilitationequipment or a new activity specific piece of equipment to replaceelements if possible. Support 904 facilitates motion of the forceapplication element 901 and one or more associated force generator 903and provides a place for the eccentric contraction inducing forcegenerator to be in some way connected. Application specific, there maybe one or more support stands. Force application element 901 can beadjusted to facilitate the development of the infinitely programmablelocation for force to be exerted. The force application element 901 canalso be capable of facilitating, enabling and generating directionalstability for increased safety and form if needed. The connectors 902may be omitted or otherwise different than shown, and may be a hand heldor multi dimension, activity specific unit such as, for example, a golf,baseball, football, swimming, running javelin, horse racing, hockey,basketball, soccer. Force generator 903 can be adjusted such that it ispositioned up and or down the support 904 to provide an increasedworking envelope. Strengthening member 905 optionally provides strengthto supports 904 and thus also to force generator 903, connectors 902 andforce application element 901. In some applications, ultimate rigiditywill be sought and thus the purpose of strengthening member 905. Inother applications strengthening member 905 can be omitted if notrequired or incorporated into some other building or structure.

Pre-stressing unit 906 is a muscle excitement or pre-stressing unit thatcan exert physical forces and or electrical potential to target specificmuscles and or groups of muscles prior to, during, and or afterreceiving a plyometric force. This can be achieved through, for example,passing potential current through the muscles or groups of muscles,vibrations, light stimulation, heat stimulation, conduction, convection,radiation, neuro magnetic, magnetic, and other methods. Sensor 907 iscapable of detecting various muscle or bodily characteristics such asbut not limited to weight, thermal, tension, stress, damage,conductance, hydration. Sensor 907 can be used in conjunction with logicto trigger various machine initiation and or adjustment cycles/sequences and profiles durations etc. to target specific muscles and orgroups of muscles prior to, during, and or after receiving a plyometricforce and or logic. Sensor 907 may but does not necessarily need to beattached to the user, and it may rely on optical and or thermal, orother metric data collected by remote sensors. Sensor 907 may also existas a number of sensors located and situated in a number of places togather specific user data.

Optional restrictive device 908 can control or eliminate plyometricforces from leaving the target muscles or groups of muscles bycontrolling or limiting movement of a body, limb or muscle to furtherdirect application of the plyometric force. In this case shown, therestrictive device 908 is a restrictive chest plate that restrictsmotion to the users spine and stroke of the arm muscles. Control unit909 can cause to excite, ignite or otherwise empower the pneumatic,hydraulic, magnetic, electric, electro-magnetic, neuromagnetic, etc.(inducer, actuator, servo, gear, threaded, etc.), chemical, shape-memoryalloy (one or two way) or biased member of force generator 903. Acontroller such as a valve, regulator, computer, or combination thereofcan be used to facilitate all of the key performance capabilities asdetailed above. The control unit 909 can be configurable to exhibitvariable levels of excitement to force generator 903 and forceapplication element 901 if equipped with additional axis of motion suchas torsion. The control unit 909 can further have computationalcapabilities to interpret and react to dynamic sensor readingssurrounding repeatability and muscle condition. The control unit 909 canfurther interact with pre-stressing unit 906 and sensor 907, as well asforce generator 903 to dynamically generate new plyometric forceapplication embodiments and or force application profile embodimentsbased on instantaneous and or trending muscle condition. The apparatuscan have more than one control unit 909 depending on the application.The control unit 909 can be located internally, externally, integrallyor remotely. The control unit 909 can further conduct one or two waycommunications with the force generator 903 via a communication channel910, such as, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, direct wire, etc. Thecontrol unit 909 can further be capable of generating and set or sub setof the plyometric force and logic as described in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4A-F,5A, 5B, 6 and 7.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the apparatus can alsofacilitate a modification to the plyometric exercise as the reactivemotion can be controlled and limited to be in a specific direction thatis not 180 degrees opposite to the direction of the initial force. Theapparatus can facilitate a reaction movement in any 3-dimentional space(X,Y,Z) direction. This can be accomplished through the logic controllerwhereby the apparatus or robot restricts motion in all but the desiredmovement paths or vector. The desired reactive movement path can befurther complicated to include varying resistance by the apparatus thatcan increase or decrease or torsionally rotate or twist, as location andtime changes either by a preset programmed function, or a dynamic forcefeedback type setting. Force feedback data can also be obtained from theapparatus' servos.

A method and apparatus for plyometric force application to muscle hasbeen described. Numerous specific details have been set forth in orderto provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It willbe apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the presentinvention may be practiced without these specific details. In otherinstances, well-known features have not been described in detail so asnot to obscure the invention. The invention may be embodied in otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or essentialcharacteristics thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to beconsidered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Othervariations and modifications of the invention will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art, and therefore it is understood that the foregoingembodiments are presented merely as exemplary to enable a completeunderstanding of the invention. Such variations and modifications as areembraced by the scope of the description are contemplated as within thepurview of the present invention.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are indicative of the level of skill of those skilled inthe art to which this invention pertains and are herein incorporated byreference. The invention being thus described, it will be obvious thatthe same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the scope of the invention, and all suchmodifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intendedto be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims:
 1. An apparatus for delivering plyometric force to muscle, theapparatus comprising: a force generator to generate plyometric force; aforce application element functionally connected to the force generatorfor delivering the plyometric force to muscle; a control unit forcontrolling the force generator; and a memory for storing a plyometricforce application profile, wherein the force generator generates aplyometric force based on the stored plyometric force applicationprofile.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plyometric forceapplication profile comprises times, duration, amplitude, temporalvariability, plyometric force intensity, force direction on a 360°plane, load time periods, or a combination thereof.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a delta robot.
 4. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the plyometric force application profile comprises amultitude of a single plyometric contraction forces, wherein each singleplyometric contraction force is comprised of single or multiple pulses,vibrations, twists, torsional rotations, pulls, or a combinationthereof.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the applied plyometricforce is eccentric, concentric, or a combination thereof.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the force application element is a bar,plate, handlebar, platform, tether, harness, bat, club, racquet orstick.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the force applicationelement delivers plyometric force through a fluid to the muscle.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein the fluid is air or water.
 9. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the force application element isinterfaced with the apparatus with a connector, fastener, mechanicaldevice, friction fit, magnetic device, or combination thereof.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 1, comprising more than one force generator.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sensor for measuring muscleapplied weight, force, temperature, tension, stress, damage,conductance, hydration, or a combination thereof.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the force generator is a pneumatic, hydraulic,magnetic, electric, elastic, electro-magnetic, or neuromagnetic forcegenerator.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus isconfigured like a bench press, a leg squat equipment, a bicep machine,an all-in-one universal fitness equipment machine application, a rowingmachine, an abdominal machine, or a physical rehabilitation device. 14.A method for applying plyometric force to muscle, the apparatuscomprising: creating a plyometric force application profile; generatingplyometric force using a plyometric force generator based on theplyometric force application profile; transferring the plyometric forcefrom the force generator to a force application element; and deliveringthe plyometric force to a muscle by the force application element. 15.The method of claim 14, wherein the plyometric force application profilecomprises a multitude of a single plyometric contraction forces, whereineach single plyometric contraction force is comprised of single ormultiple pulses, vibrations, twists, torsional rotations, and pulls overdifferent load time periods.
 16. The method of claim 14, wherein theplyometric force application profile is programmable.
 17. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the plyometric force application profile comprisesvariations in, vectors, cycles, sequences, combinations of time, force,stroke, force direction, or a combination thereof.
 18. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the plyometric force is exerted in multiple axissimultaneously, such as x, y, z, twist x, twist y, twist z, and acombination thereof.
 19. The method of claim 14, further comprisingpre-straining muscle, pre-stressing muscle, or a combination thereof.20. The method of claim 14, further comprising creating an electricpotential across a muscle or group of muscles before delivering theplyometric force to the muscle.